You can use simple, free site builders to create a portfolio website, like Wix or WordPress. As an extra precaution, scan any physical drawings or non-digital art pieces to your computer so you have them on hand.

Basically, write down the “what,” “why,” and “how” of your artwork. An artist statement is a great place to talk about your influences and inspirations. For instance, you can say something like: “I’m a digital artist who uses wet medium brushes to create abstract watercolor portraits. My art encourages viewers to contemplate their identity so they can have a fulfilling journey while looking at my art. I like to paint the colors one at a time to give my art a sense of detachment. ”

For instance, you can write something like: “To whom it may concern:I believe that art should tell a story—with this in mind, I’d like to share my story with you. My name is Jessica Simon, and I’m a freelance digital artist who’s trying to find a place in the world. For many years, I’ve admired the sense of identity that your art gallery has, and I would love to be a part of it. ”

For instance, you can list digital, flat color portraits for $60, cell shaded portraits for $90, and digital paintings for $120. Specify the exact medium for each item on your price list.

You can include your biography on the same page as your artist statement. For instance, you can write something like: “My name is Claire Murphy, and I have been studying digital art for over 10 years. I graduated magna cum laude from the Pratt Institute, where my work received numerous accolades. ”

For example, you can include a list of your most well-known art pieces, as well as any accolades you’ve received for your work.

If you have a large following, you may be able to bring a lot of foot traffic to the gallery. List any big social media pages you have on your CV, if you’d like. You can also gain a large following on an art website or blog.

For instance, if you create a lot of abstract paintings, you won’t want to submit your art to a gallery that sells realistic landscape paintings. Some galleries may not have their works posted online. In this case, you may want to scope out the business in person.

For instance, you can say something like this:”Greetings! My name is Andrew Nelson, and I’ve been making oil paintings for the past 5 years. I truly admire the solid sense of identity that this gallery has in their oil paintings, and I’d love to schedule an appointment with you. ” This type of communication is pretty risky, since a lot of galleries don’t like being cold called by prospective artists. If you choose to reach out to a gallerist this way, make sure your message is very clear and to-the-point. [10] X Research source

Use your professional email when signing up for any mailing list so you can stay really organized. You don’t want work-related emails going to your personal inbox!

It’s a lot easier to get your foot in the door if you’re on good terms with the gallerists. For instance, you can introduce yourself to a gallerist like this: “Hello! Thank you so much for hosting everyone here tonight. My name is Sarah Marshall, and I’m a really big fan of the gallery. Do you have any favorites in the collection here?”

Don’t try to be an overachiever! If a gallery asks for 15 samples, just send 15. They’re probably getting a lot of applications, and don’t have time to look through 50 different samples of your art. Some galleries may not have submissions open. If this is the case, respect their wishes and don’t send in any unsolicited art samples.

For instance, you can say something like: “Good morning! Do you accept in-person appointments for prospective gallery artists?” Even if the gallerists aren’t willing to meet with you, they may suggest some galleries that are looking for new talent.

For example, you can say something like: “I’m currently working on an abstract portrait series that represents each horoscope sign. These paintings represent a collective sense of human identity, and I hope to be finished with them within the next 2 months. ” You can really set your presentation apart by offering the gallerist small refreshments.

If you don’t have any recent art, galleries probably won’t want to work with you.

Don’t try to raise your prices after hearing the gallery’s commission costs, as this is pretty unprofessional.